5 ideas for indoor recess

Arizona educators know this term all too well: Indoor recess. It is both a feared term because of the potential for chaos, but it can also be a term of relief, knowing recess outside in high temperatures can drain both kids and staff alike.

Given the proper tools and preparation, indoor recess can be fun for all. Here are five ideas for how to spend this break time as we await the cooler temperatures ahead.

1. Story time: Let’s take it back to the days before advances in technology, when we listened to our teachers read to us. Incorporate all kinds of books into story time, and read them out loud; yes, even chapter books! Students can relax and put their heads down, using their imaginations to picture the story as it unfolds.

2. Drawing: This simple yet powerful activity became a go-to for me last school year. I sharpened up my artistic abilities too and joined the class in drawing sessions. In my classroom, I used Art for Kids Hub on YouTube, however, there are many videos that demonstrate how to complete drawings step by step. 

3. Learning videos: This is a great time to squeeze in short but fun educational videos. Besides all the free resources on AZPBS LearningMedia, you can also take your students down nostalgia lane with YouTube videos like Bill Nye the Science Guy or The Magic School Bus. If it’s an option, this can double as snack time as well.

4. Classroom yoga: Dim the lights, and allow students to meditate with some grounding techniques. Doing classroom yoga and practicing mindfulness has many benefits; it keeps indoor recess structured while teaching strategies that can enhance students’ lives. 

5. Go Noodle: On a time crunch with little planning? The Go Noodle website has your back! This website is filled with indoor recess videos and activities for all elementary grades. 

What are some of your go-to indoor recess activities? Share them with us at Arizona PBS Kids on Facebook.

---

About the author

Marissa Will is the mother of two, Olivia (8) and Logan (6). Writing was her first passion: she’s a freelance writer and a Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication alumna. Will is currently educating the future leaders of tomorrow: She has spent the past nine years educating third grade with a master’s degree in elementary education from Northern Arizona University-Yuma.